What's the difference between WiFi and a wired connection?

When a device is connected with an Ethernet cable it can achieve its fastest speeds. Wireless speeds for our internet are available using the WiFi signal from your router. Once connected, the speed will depend on a variety of factors. WiFi speeds will not be as fast as wired speeds. Wired speeds are delivered when you plug an Ethernet cable from your modem or router directly into your device – typically a computer, laptop, television, gaming console or other Internet-enabled device.

Is wireless or wired internet faster?

Wired connections always deliver faster speeds than WiFi as it's connected directly, with no obstruction. Actual wireless performance will vary, and depends on many factors , including interference with other wireless devices, the amount of bandwidth others are using on your WiFi network, obstructions such as walls and other objects that are between you and the wireless router.

This new standard of WiFi is ready to support more devices with better reliability and faster speeds. Delivering four times better performance than AC WiFi, WiFi 6 allows more devices to connect and stream simultaneously, without impacting speed or reliability, by efficiently packing and scheduling data.

What's the difference between WiFi and WiFi 6?

WiFi 6 is the latest generation of WiFi technology, which introduced not only faster speeds but also the ability to split WiFi across a network of connected devices, meaning more potential speed for each device. Rather than boosting speeds for individual devices, WiFi 6 is all about improving the network when multiple devices are connected, and when paired with our internet, it optimizes connectivity for all connected devices.

What's a wireless router?

A router is a network device that can be used to share your internet connection with multiple computers or devices, wirelessly. It is connected directly to your modem and then to each device on your home network, either wirelessly or through a network cable.

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Q: Do you have any router recommendations?

We recommend using a router with the protocol called 802.11ac or better. Check your user manual to see what protocol your router currently offers.

Q: Can I use my own router?

Yes, you can use your own router. Most stand-alone wireless routers should work just fine with our service. The router takes the signal from the modem and makes it accessible to your devices.

Q: If I use my own router and decide I'd like to get Astound WiFi down the line, can I still get Astound WiFi?

Certainly, we can offer any home that we service, the WiFi equipment you need. We recommend you contact us so we can understand your specific WiFi needs for your home.

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Get a WiFi system that is smart enough to route WiFi traffic between your devices and blankets your home in reliable WiFi.

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eero Internet Backup lets you add alternative wireless connections – like a personal hotspot – to keep your WiFi up and running even when your wired connection is disrupted.

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Frequently asked questions

For equipment to security management - get all your WiFi questions answered.

Is there a fee for Astound WiFi?

Yes, there is a monthly cost, depending on your needs. We offer multiple options for WiFi – from Standard WiFi to Enhanced WiFi to Whole Home WiFi. Standard WiFi is provided through one of our routers. Enhanced Whole Home WiFi powered by eero® comes with eero devices and the eero app for easy WiFi management. Whole Home WiFi is a combination of multiple eero devices to cover your home space.

Do you have any router recommendations?

WiFi standard of 802.11ax (WiFi-6) or better is recommended and is an upgrade over the previous standard, which is 802.11ac (WiFi-5).

Can I use my own router?

Yes, with most of our speeds, you can use your own router. Most stand-alone wireless routers should work just fine with our service. The router takes the signal from the modem and makes it accessible to your devices. For 1.2 Gbps (speed up to 1200 Mbps), Astound Broadband supplied rented equipment will ensure customers will have the capability to handle 1200 Mbps speeds in their home.

Can Astound Broadband provide me with support if I use my own router?

We only offer support and troubleshooting for our equipment. Support for customer owned routers should be directed directly to the manufacturer.

If I use my own router and decide I'd like to get Astound WiFi down the line, can I still get Astound WiFi?

Certainly, we can offer homes that we service, the WiFi equipment you need. We recommend you contact us so we can understand your specific WiFi needs for your home.

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Disclaimers

*Internet speeds may vary & are not guaranteed. Certain equipment may be required to reach advertised speeds. DOCSIS 3.1 modem with 2.5GE physical LAN port is required for 1 Gigabit speeds and higher. See astound.com/yourspeed for why speeds may vary. To view Astound’s FCC Network Management Disclosure see astound.com/policies-disclaimers. Modem required for Internet service. No contract required. Subject to availability. We substantiate that the cable modem equipment provided, and the configuration of such cable modem, meets the broadband speeds advertised when attached to a wired connection based on SamKnows testing procedures.

Not all services, speeds, packages, equipment, channels, tiers, pricing, streaming services, product offerings and product features are available in all areas. Offers valid only for new residential customers or previous customers with account in good standing who have not had our service within the last 60 days. All names, logos, images and service marks are property of their respective owners. Other restrictions may apply.

Whole Home WiFi: Activation and installation not included. Up to $40/mo for Whole Home WiFi equipment. Additional eero devices available for an additional cost, per device. ©2025 Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. eero and all related marks are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Amazon.com c/o eero LLC, 660 3rd St. San Francisco, CA.

eero Plus is available for an additional $9.99/month and requires subscription to whole home WiFi powered by eero.